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Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design

Next semester starts 01/21/2025

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What is a Graphic Design degree?

The Graphic Design program at St. Ambrose is a concentration within our BA in Art and Design degree. Our Graphic Design program will provide you with essential skills, creative vision, and industry insights. Learn design principles, refine technical abilities, and explore diverse media applications. You will focus on the most high-demand industry areas, including print, illustration, branding & identity systems, motion graphics, and UX/UI design. Gain proficiency in visual communication, preparing for dynamic careers in graphic design and digital media.

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Why earn a degree in Graphic Design?

You will have access to excellent student art facilities and one-on-one interaction with practicing artists. Our program emphasizes career development ensuring you graduate with the skills and portfolio they need to succeed in their field.

Well-equipped studios

Computer labs feature Adobe Creative Cloud, large format printers, and software for motion graphics and UI/UX design.

Free admission to the Figge

Each student receives a free membership to the Figge Art Museum, which provides access to world-class exhibitions, events and lectures.

Professional practice

Our capstone prepares you with interviewing skills, resume and portfolio building, and assistance with graduate school applications.

On-campus galleries

The Galvin Fine Arts Center features two public galleries – the Morrissey and Catich – where students exhibit their work.

Industry connections

SAU’s Art Department partners with local museums, galleries and businesses to give students a head start in their field.

Graduate with a portfolio

Students graduate with a full portfolio tailored for industry and graduate school applications.

What you’ll learn in your Graphic Design program

Our Graphic Design concentration within our BA in Art and Design degree allows you to explore various design elements in depth and add your own unique visual twists to create something completely new. Along the way, a strong art foundation will be taught through core art courses. Some graphic design skills you will learn include:

Introduction to the elements and principles of art and design through the use of various media
The analysis of letter form and color choices
An exploration of historical influences in the creation of original design products
How to analyze and respond to the needs of clients
Basic techniques with image creation, video editing, moving image and kinetic typography

Nurturing instructors, personalized growth

“The instructors allowed me to develop in a way that was specific to me and supported me along the way. I was never discouraged from pursuing or experimenting with new ideas/techniques/materials. The staff at St Ambrose are some of the most giving and understanding teachers I have ever met."

-Adam Little '11 BA in Art & Design

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Explore Graphic Design courses

This degree requires you to complete a total of 120 credits.
You will complete 39 gen ed credits, 30 core Art credits, 27 Graphic Design credits, and 21 elective credits.

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Sample courses

Class code	Class title	Credits
AD 110	2D Design	3 credits
AD 180	Motion Graphics	3 credits
AD 210	Typography	3 credits
AD 310	WI Professional Practices	3 credits
AH 355	WI-History of Graphic Design	3 credits

How much does a degree in Graphic Design cost?

The cost of your degree will depend on several factors, like scholarships, housing, meal plans, and transfer credits. New students also pay a $100 matriculation fee. You will also need to budget for books, supplies, materials, transportation, personal costs, loan fees, and other expenses. Explore total cost of attendance.

Full-time student living on campus

Expense	By Semester	By Year
Full-time tuition (12-18 credits)*	$18,189	$36,378
Housing**	$4,019	$8,038
Food***	$2,670	$5,340
Technology fee	$140	$280
Total direct charges (billable)	$25,018	$50,036

*Based on 2024-2025 tuition and fees. Tuition and fees are subject to change each summer.
**This cost is estimated, actual housing cost will vary by student selections.
***Cost estimate based on 3 meals per day.

How much does housing cost?

When it comes to housing, St. Ambrose University offers diverse options to meet the needs of our students. From traditional dormitories to apartment-style living, there's something for everyone. The cost of your housing will vary based on where you decide to live and the meal plan you choose.

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St. Ambrose University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission

Accreditation and recognitions provide the assurance we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability.

See all of SAU’s accreditations

How does Graphic Design faculty support their students?

St. Ambrose University’s Graphic Design faculty are professional designers that are eager to share their learned experience in the field. They will work to hone your creative vision and illustrate how to apply tactical design concepts in the field, from analyzing text fonts to studying the intentions behind branding choices.

Graphic design program faculty

Renee Meyer Ernst

Other support resources

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Student Success Center

At St. Ambrose, we want you to thrive. Access free tutoring, study groups, and supplemental instruction through our Student Success Center.

Explore academic support services

Accessibility Resource Center

Whether you need classroom accommodations, alternative exam arrangements, or disability support strategies, our Accessibility Resource Center is here to help.

Learn about our resources

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Career services

Our Academic and Career Planning Center is ready to help you polish your resume and land the job or internship that will launch your career.

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Are there scholarships available for Graphic Design students?

At St. Ambrose University, we believe that education should be accessible to all. That's why we offer a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help make college more affordable for our students. We are committed to providing our students with the resources they need to succeed academically and financially.

Art scholarships

Undergraduate Art majors and minors can access up to $3,000 in scholarships each year. Applicants submit a portfolio including 10-12 original works of art or design. Portfolios are reviewed by faculty in the Art Department. Preference is given to applicants who submit before March 10. Learn more about art scholarships.

Merit-based and institutional scholarships

St. Ambrose offers excellent scholarships and grants based on your strong academic performance, your talent in fine arts or athletics, or your community involvement. Explore SAU scholarships.

Transfer credits

At SAU, you may be able to transfer previous college credit toward your bachelor’s degree, saving you significant time and money. Learn how to transfer credits.

Don’t let cost hinder your future

"Cost is obviously a big thing for anybody going to college. When I found out about the Ambrose Advantage, it took the stress off me and my family. Now I can focus on my classes and getting a start on my career."

-Bailey Hird, Fairfield, Iowa

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What’s on campus for Graphic Design students?

St. Ambrose University’s Art Department and student art facilities are housed in the Galvin Fine Arts Center. Graphic design is taught in a Mac lab equipped with a wide range of software to hone multiple design disciplines.

Galvin is also home to two galleries. The Catich Gallery hosts contemporary art exhibits featuring the work of regional and national artists as well as faculty and seniors graduating with honors. The Morrissey Gallery offers a unique exhibition opportunity to local and regional artists.

Join SAU’s Art Club to participate in events at local museums where they interact with artists and meet new people through regular events at local museums. During "teaching nights" a member teaches participants an artistic skill so they can build on and expand their talent and abilities.

A strong foundation for your career

“Prospective students should know that they shouldn’t be afraid to ask for help or guidance when they need it. St. Ambrose is a wonderful community with great resources to help students achieve success.”

-Allison Boyer ‘22, BA in Art History and Painting

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What are the admission requirements for a degree in Graphic Design?

Here are the admissions requirements for our graphic design program.

You must have graduated from an accredited high school or earned a GED
You must have a minimum cumulative, unweighted GPA of 2.5
You must provide an official high school transcript

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International student requirements

If you live outside of the U.S. there are different admissions requirements. Here’s what you’ll need:

Official transcripts from secondary education
A minimum 2.5 CGPA out of a 4.0 scale, or equivalent
Proof of English language proficiency (minimum scores: TOEFL - 79, IELTS - 6.0)
Copy of your passport and other documentation

What can I do with a Graphic Design degree?

Your education and degree can help you reach your professional goals. St. Ambrose University can never promise a career or particular outcome upon graduating. We encourage you to explore potential jobs and employment settings. Here is a list of potential job titles, traits, and settings a graduate in our Bachelor of Arts in Art and Design with a concentration in Graphic Design could achieve.

Potential job titles

Graphic designer
Web designer
Art instructor
UI/UX designer
Advertising designer
Art director

Potential employment settings

Marketing agency
Publishing studio
School or university
Freelance
Corporate office
Multimedia production company

Traits of a graphic designer

Creativity
Attention to detail
Communication and collaboration skills
Aesthetic judgment
Adaptability
Cultural awareness and understanding

Industry facts

The need for digital designers and web developers is expected to grow 16% through 2032.
The median wage for special effects artists and animators was $99,060 in 2023.

For more information on financial employment and wages, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook.

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Become who you are meant to be

With more than 65 undergraduate and graduate programs, there’s something for everyone at St. Ambrose University! Explore our programs to find your place at SAU.